Three years ago, when I turned 70, I retired from my admin role at a Medical Centre after almost 20 years and made Pauanui my permanent home. There were a few doubters wondering what I would do or whether I’d get lonely. Little did they know! I recently discovered there are 58 different groups and organisations in Pauanui to get involved with, so I’m certainly never bored.

We have a son and daughter in Auckland and four beautiful granddaughters, aged 5–11, who you may have spotted in Donna’s classes during the holidays.

As a teenager, all I wanted to do was travel, and I certainly made the most of it before eventually settling down, marrying and raising a family. I spent my working life in administration, although my original dream was to be a hairdresser. My creative side eventually found an outlet in gardening, rescuing struggling plants and turning them into beautiful topiary and clipped hedges. We've also been fortunate enough to travel extensively, including two stints living in Southern California.

I've always loved dancing, particularly ballroom, New Vogue and Ceroc, but they all needed a partner. So when I heard line dancing was starting in Pauanui, I couldn't get there fast enough! I've been with Donna's class since day one. It took a while to find my rhythm again, and the Improvers class still keeps my brain working, but there's nothing better than finally nailing a dance!

Some of my favourites are Twenty Two (Donna's two-part version), Spinning Wheel, Opalite and, of course, Rhumbumbumba.

We're so lucky to have Donna as our instructor. Her enthusiasm, welcoming nature and great sense of humour make every class enjoyable. Line dancing is fantastic exercise, the music is great and the company even better. Really, what more could we wish for!